Mornings can be chaotic, especially for busy women and moms. Trying to get up, get the kids ready, and tackle the day can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
It’s frustrating to start the day behind schedule and constantly playing catch-up. It’s time to break free from the cycle of chaos and create a smoother morning routine.
With my Savvy checklist, you can easily prioritize tasks, streamline your morning routine, and find time for self-care.
It’s a game-changer for busy women and moms looking to conquer their mornings and take control of their day.
So say goodbye to morning chaos and hello to a calmer, more productive start to your day with our morning routine checklist.
Key Takeaways
- One of my top mom hacks? Checklists and routines- plus making time for myself!
- Start your day with a comprehensive morning routine checklist with easy-to-follow suggestions to get yourself ready.
- Get up early, make the bed, hydrate, and exercise to set yourself up for success!
- Have a filling breakfast that fuels your mind and body.
- Enjoy some coffee/tea, have some time to yourself, and prepare for the day before things get busy with everyone else.
- Do the prep work and planning the night before- put the phone down and unwind for a good night’s sleep!
- Don’t worry- not every day will go perfectly, but you deserve a calm morning to regroup and replenish yourself.
Morning Routine Checklist
So why have a morning routine checklist?
A great morning routine is like a roadmap to a successful day. It sets the tone for the hours ahead, helping you build healthy habits and stay on track with your goals.
My own morning routine checklist features easy steps that effectively kickstart your ideal morning routine.
From personal care like meditation to fueling your body with a protein-rich, healthy breakfast, each step plays a key role in creating your productive morning.
So let’s dive into the best morning routine checklist and see how I can help you make your mornings easier:
1. Get Up Before The Kiddos
My ideal morning routine starts with something basic- just getting up a bit early to give yourself an hour or two to focus on you.
Waking up before your children allows you to carve out some peaceful moments for yourself and prepare for the day ahead.
It’s how you can take care of all the stuff you need for yourself without focusing on someone else.
Additionally, early mornings offer a chance to ponder your daily achievements during the first few hours, paving the way for an upbeat and fruitful day.
2. Make Your Bed
I stick by a few things: having shoes on keeps me moving, eggs make an amazing healthy breakfast, and a clean bedroom makes me feel better.
Making your bed might seem like a small task, but it sets a positive tone for the day and creates an instant sense of accomplishment.
A tidy house can lead to feeling more in control and successful, even if it seems small to others.
This modest act can spur you to undertake more chores during the day, generating momentum for a fruitful morning.
Plus, coming home to a tidy, well-made bed at the end of a long day is always nice.
For an added touch, put out a set of clean PJs and a candle so you can light it and get comfy at the end of the day.
If you want help keeping your room clean, check out my free bedroom cleaning checklists!
3. Bathroom Trip!
Too often, I would wake up, rush with the kiddos, and forget to take care of myself first thing in the morning.
You can’t skip the bathroom without flirting with danger ladies!
An important step of your morning routine checklist is getting into the bathroom and caring for yourself.
Initiating your day with a trip to the bathroom is vital to uphold personal hygiene and feel invigorated.
Make a potty pit stop, wash your hands and face, and put on some deodorant to wake up a bit.
4. Brush Hair & Teeth
But wait, don’t leave the bathroom just yet- you’ve got some other things you need to do!
Brushing your hair and teeth in the morning is crucial in feeling clean and refreshed and ensuring you’re taking care of yourself, Mama.
A healthy oral hygiene routine helps you wake up and feel clean before a shower while brushing your hair can improve its health, shine, and blood flow to the scalp.
Plus, looking a bit nicer makes us all feel a little more human, right?
These basic rituals boost your overall sense of good health and form a healthy part of your morning routine checklist.
5. Meditation/Journal Writing
Taking a few moments for meditation or journal writing in the morning can clear your mind and set intentions for the day.
Meditating helps release built-up stress and provides a clear headspace to be thoughtful and productive.
I do daily affirmations, things that make me feel good about myself and help me find my calm even later when the kiddos test my patience.
Alternatively, journal writing can help you reflect on your daily accomplishments, set goals, and organize your thoughts.
It never hurts to think about the good in your life and the things you’re proud of to motivate you today.
These mindful practices in your routine can have a lasting influence on your mental health and stress levels, making focusing on what’s in front of you effortless.
I sometimes write in my journal before I get up and make our bed, but I often take out my notebook during breakfast so I’m not tempted to doomscroll.
6. Have A Protein-Rich Breakfast
On that note, let’s talk about breakfast! I know some people wait to eat or eat something fast, but the right breakfast can help your body throughout the morning.
Initiating your day with a healthy breakfast filled with protein is vital to nourish your body and sustain energy levels all day.
Eating a balanced meal in the morning provides your body with the nutrients it needs to stay focused, alert, and ready to tackle the day ahead.
Consider options like oatmeal, smoothies, or eggs with toast to ensure you get the protein you need to power through your day.
You have plenty of options for food that can fill you and make you feel good. My go-to is a lazy breakfast sandwich- eggs, cheese, and frozen sausage over toast.
But when I want to satisfy some cravings, I’ll make oatmeal with peanut butter and milk, but I add a sweat treat like M&M’s or brownie bits to get my chocolate fix.
Treat yo’ self, Mama, and start your day off with something you like and deserve!
7. Hydrate Or Diedrate
Shocker, you kind of need water to live. For now, I say skip over your regular coffee fix and focus on hydrating with an 8 oz glass of water.
Hyrdate or diedrate ladies!
Drinking water or any hydrating drink first thing in the morning is key to your overall health and well-being.
Drinking water or herbal tea can help digestion, ease constipation, and improve skin health.
For example, you can try a glass of warm water with lemon, apple cider vinegar, or a pinch of sea salt for your digestion and gut health.
Add a water bottle that tracks your water to your morning routine checklist so you know how you’re doing throughout the morning and if you need to get more water in.
8. Exercise A Lil
You may notice I didn’t mention taking a shower earlier- because I was waiting until after some quick exercise. Why bother getting fresh before you get sweaty, right?
Light exercise each morning can boost your energy levels and improve your mental health, getting you rolling for the day.
Whether it’s a brisk walk in your neighborhood, a quick yoga session, or a seven-minute workout, just get your body moving a bit.
I usually dedicate at least 15-20 minutes when I can, plus I change it up daily so that I don’t get too bored or lazy with my exercise.
9. Take A Relaxing Shower
Now you’re set for the typical part of your own morning routine- time to wash!
Besides getting the seat and grime off, a relaxing shower can awaken your senses and help you prepare for the day ahead.
The soothing sensation of warm water can ease muscle tension, while the invigorating effect of a cold shower can boost your mood and mental alertness.
Including a shower in your morning routine can enhance your overall well-being and pave the way for a fruitful day.
10. Dress Comfortably- But Skip PJs!
Dressing comfortably is important for maintaining a productive mindset, but avoid wearing pajamas during the day.
Choosing comfortable and appropriate attire for your day’s activities, such as workout clothes, can help you feel sharp and ready to tackle your to-do list.
By skipping the PJs, you’re signaling to your brain that it’s time to shift gears and focus on the tasks ahead.
I find I can’t get as motivated to cook, clean, and work when I’m in PJs- I at least try to get into yoga pants and a t-shirt if I want comfy but active.
I mentioned it as a joke earlier, but I also find that wearing shoes keeps me moving and cleaning- so consider adding slippers or inside-only shoes to get yourself motivated.
11. Review Your To-Do List
Which is more important today, that laundry load or washing the bathroom? Well, it depends on the day and if guests are coming over!
Going over your to-do list and important tasks each morning helps in task prioritization and goal setting for the day so things that matter get done.
By understanding what needs to be accomplished, you can stay focused and organized throughout the day.
This simple yet effective habit can significantly impact your overall productivity and sense of accomplishment.
We have a Get Sh*t Done list for different parts of our lives, and as a list person, I can’t skip figuring out my game plan.
12. Have A Cup Of Coffee (Or Tea)
Ready to get caffeinated and get moving? Now’s the time to get your last bits of quiet for the morning!
Enjoying your morning coffee or tea can be a soothing ritual and a moment of mindfulness.
Both beverages are packed with antioxidants, offering numerous health benefits to support your overall well-being.
Taking the time to savor your morning beverage can provide a moment of calm and focus before diving into the day’s tasks.
13. Get Your Family Up & Going
Now that you’ve gotten yourself ready to tackle the day, it’s time to get the family up and at ’em.
Help your family start their day by:
- Waking them up
- Assisting with their morning routines
- Encouraging your kids to participate in self-care activities
- Assigning age-appropriate tasks to get ready for school (with a free morning school routine!), daycare, etc.
Involving your family in your morning routine sets the stage for a successful day for all. This can create a positive and productive atmosphere for everyone.
As your kids get older, this great morning routine checklist can become their list, too, so everyone can be on the same page and ready to roll every day.
My Tips For Smooth Mornings
Smooth mornings can be possible with some preparation and mindfulness. But an important part of my morning routine checklist actually happens at the end of my day.
Prep the night before, plan your day, prioritize sleep, and establish a consistent morning routine checklist that works for you.
Let me tell you how I do it and get my perfect morning routine down pat:
14. Prep The Night Before
Prepare for the next day by organizing clothes, meals, and work materials the night before.
Preparing ahead of time can significantly reduce morning stress, prepare you for what’s to come, and even prepare the kiddos for plans.
Having everything ready to go when you wake up saves time and mental energy, allowing you to focus on the important tasks ahead.
Integrating this basic habit into your nighttime routine prepares you for a smoother and more fruitful morning.
15. Make Your To-Do List
A thorough to-do list is an effective way to stay organized and prioritize tasks all day. It’s my #1 step for home management!
By writing down all the tasks you need to accomplish, you can better manage your time and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
A well-structured list can aid in focusing on the most critical tasks, thereby making your mornings more productive.
I change mine up daily- some days, I need to focus on getting the house guest-ready, others I need to focus on deep cleaning.
Remember that you need to tailor things to your family, but no woman is an island; involve your family in cleaning and planning.
16. Skip Phone Before Bed
Being on your phone before bed can negatively impact your sleep quality and overall well-being- skip the doomscrolling, please!
The blue light from your screens can interfere with your body’s melatonin production, making it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Plus, you never know if the stuff on social media will wind you up or upset you before bed, so it’s best just to skip it.
Instead, try implementing a relaxing bedtime routine that doesn’t involve screens, such as reading a book or practicing mindfulness meditation.
I’m a fan of sodoku, and I’ll do a few pages to help me relax and sleep.
17. Get A Good Night’s Sleep
Prioritizing sleep is essential for morning productivity and overall health- how can you get things done tomorrow if you don’t rest tonight?
Prioritizing and focusing on sleep hygiene will pave the way for an energized and productive morning.
Establish a consistent bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment for you that helps you get the restful sleep your body needs to function at its best.
FAQs
What are some tips to get up early?
My morning routine ideas start with getting up early and having time to yourself, but that’s not easy for everyone.
Getting up early starts with enough sleep and setting a consistent bedtime. Use an alarm clock to wake up at the desired time and wake slowly.
Gradually adjust your wake-up time by setting the alarm clock a few minutes earlier each day.
Create an evening routine/bedtime routine that works for you and stick to it to help signal to your body that it’s time to sleep, making it easier to wake up early.
Also, avoid using electronic devices and being on your phone before bed, as they can interfere with your sleep quality.
How can I have a productive morning?
To have a productive morning, establish a morning routine that includes self-care activities, exercise, and goal-setting.
Focus on the most important tasks and set realistic goals for the day. Prioritize hydration and enjoy a protein-rich breakfast to fuel your body and maintain strong energy levels.
Integrating these habits into your mornings will lay the groundwork for a successful and productive day.
What are the best morning habits?
The best morning habits include:
- Waking up early
- Eating a healthy breakfast with protein
- Meditating/Relaxing
- Hydrating
- Exercising
- Planning for the day
By incorporating these habits into your morning routine, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a morning person and enjoying the benefits it brings.
How can I become a morning person?
Becoming a morning person involves adjusting your sleep schedule, creating a morning routine, and prioritizing self-care.
Gradually shift your bedtimes and wake-up times to ensure a consistent sleep schedule that gives you time to relax and plenty of time to get 8-ish hours of sleep.
How do I get ready before my kids?
To get ready before your kids, wake up earlier and establish a morning routine that includes self-care and preparation.
Focus on your needs and set a positive tone for the day in ways that benefit you- my morning routine checklist is a start.
Adjust it and add whatever you might need to have everything you need set and done before getting the kids up for the day.
How do I involve my kids in my morning routine?
Incorporating your children into your morning routine will foster a positive and productive environment for the whole family.
Involve your kids in your morning routine by assigning age-appropriate tasks and encouraging them to participate in self-care activities.
Also, use a kids daily routine chart to get them moving and busy all day, with activities such as getting dressed, brushing your teeth, and having breakfast.
And remember, kids can have solo play time in the morning and start becoming independent, so you can get your stuff done, too.
My Thoughts
Starting your day off right is essential for achieving success and finding inner balance.
It’s important to use the right breakfast, exercise routines, and meditation practices to give you the energy boost needed to face the daily hustle.
My checklist will help you get your morning under wraps so you can take charge of how you spend your day without chaos taking over.
You’ll have no problem getting up in the morning, feeling energized, and staying on top of everything that needs doing during the day.
So don’t wait another minute- use my checklist to get ready for a successful morning routine!